Microsoft is reported to have left Nscale's Essex site

On Oct. 18, 2026 the Guardian reported that Microsoft told Nscale it was ending its agreement for the Loughton, Essex AI data center, a deal the Telegraph reported first. The BBC said it understands Microsoft has terminated that involvement and that Microsoft declined to comment. Nscale said it is still committed to the site, is looking at other power sources, and that the London grid delay does not affect its other Microsoft contracts, including work the BBC said continues in Norway, Portugal and the United States.